When "Sabbath" Means "We're Closed"

 Every year, the calendar creates the same pressure point. Christmas and New Year’s crowd the week. Travel ramps up. Volunteers are tired. Families are stretched. Pastors and staff feel the weight of one more service, one more Sunday that requires everyone to be “on.”

And then the language starts to appear online and sometimes in local circles: “We’re taking a sabbath this weekend.” In plain terms, it often means, “We’re not meeting as a church on Sunday.”

I want to respond with grace, because real people and real burdens sit behind these decisions. But I also want to respond with clarity, because the way we talk about this matters, and what we normalize shapes the spiritual instincts of our congregations for years to come.

The first issue is simple: words matter. In Scripture, “Sabbath” is not a synonym for a weekend off. The Sabbath was the seventh day, tied to God’s pattern of creation and given to Israel as a covenant sign. Christians have long distinguished between the Sabbath and “the Lord’s Day,” the first day of the week when the church gathered to worship in light of Jesus’ resurrection. My point is not to pick a fight over terminology. My point is to be honest. When we call a canceled Sunday service a “sabbath,” we can unintentionally baptize something ordinary with spiritual language. It sounds like obedience when it may simply be a schedule decision.

The second issue is deeper. The gathered worship of the church is not a nice extra. It is not an optional program. It is one of God’s primary means of grace for His people. Through the assembly, God feeds His church by His Word, strengthens faith through prayer, deepens love through fellowship, and steadies saints through singing truth together. This is not about checking a box. It is about a rhythm that forms us.

When we casually remove that rhythm, we often, without intending to, train our people to treat the gathering as negotiable. We teach them that the church convenes when it is convenient, and that discipleship can be paused when the season gets full. The problem is that life never stops presenting full seasons. If the church’s gathering becomes one more activity to fit into the holiday schedule, we should not be surprised when it is treated like every other activity. It becomes something you do if you are not too tired, not too busy, not traveling, and not needing a break. The logic sounds harmless in December, but it does not stay in December.

I think the temptation will only grow in the next few years. In 2026, Christmas Day is a Friday. In 2027, it is a Saturday. In 2028, it lands on a Monday, and the pattern repeats itself for New Year's Day. That means churches will increasingly face a real decision point about the Sunday nearest Christmas. Will we gather in the normal Lord’s Day rhythm, or will we treat that Sunday as flexible because “everyone already did Christmas,” or because “the team needs a break,” or because “attendance will be low anyway”? Those pressures will not feel theoretical. They will feel practical, compassionate, even reasonable. That is why we need to think clearly now, before the moment arrives.

It is also worth noting that, given the upcoming schedule, it may not be Christmas Sunday that becomes the primary temptation. For some churches, the greater pressure may come the following week when the Sunday gathering falls close to the New Year. For us in the United States, the week between Christmas and New Year’s is the most disrupted of the year. People are traveling again, routines are already off, volunteers are scarce, and leaders are tempted to view that Sunday as an easy day to “give everyone a break.” In other words, the temptation to cancel may slide forward on the calendar from Christmas itself to the Sunday around New Year’s. The same pastoral questions still apply, and the same instincts will be tested.

Now, I want to be fair. Rest matters. Pastors can burn out. Volunteers can be overused. Churches can quietly cultivate a culture in which the same people carry the load, leading to exhaustion and resentment. I do not want to shame the need for rest. In fact, I want to defend it. Healthy pastors and healthy volunteers are a gift to the church. A church that ignores limits will eventually hurt people.

But the answer to exhaustion is usually not cancellation of the gathering. The better answer is repentance: we have normalized overwork, built fragile systems, and lost the wisdom to simplify what never needed to be complicated.

It is worth noting that the churches most likely to cancel are often not the small churches with one pastor and a handful of faithful servants. It is frequently the larger churches with multiple staff and extensive weekend machinery. This observation is not meant to sneer at big churches. Large churches often do outstanding gospel work. But it should make us ask hard questions about the kind of ministry model we have created.

A larger church may have more staff, but it can also carry more complexity. It can create a Sunday that requires an entire production chain: multiple volunteer teams, many moving parts, high expectations, and services that cannot be easily simplified without making someone feel that something important has been taken away. In that environment, Sunday can begin to function like an event we produce rather than a gathering we prioritize. If Sunday requires a small army to run, then it becomes vulnerable. When volunteers are tired, the whole system groans. The temptation then is to turn off the system for a week and call that “rest.”

As one pastor speaking to another, I want to say plainly: I think that is a mistake.

Here is why. Scripture has several moments in which God treats the meaning of an action and the heart behind it as weighty, because the action proclaims something. God is not indifferent to signs, symbols, and holy patterns He has established for His people. When people act in a way that distorts what God is revealing about Himself, His holiness, or His saving plan, the consequences often land hard.

Think of Moses in Numbers 20. God told him to speak to the rock, but Moses struck the rock instead. Water still came, but Moses misrepresented God in the moment, and the cost was severe. He was not allowed to enter the Promised Land. Think of King Saul in 1 Samuel 13. Under pressure, he offered the sacrifice instead of waiting for Samuel. His action preached a message about whether God could be trusted and whether God’s order mattered, and the Lord took the kingly line away from him. Think of Achan in Joshua 7, who took what was devoted to God and hid it for personal use. His private act preached contempt for God’s holiness, and the consequences spread beyond him. Think of Eli’s household, and his sons Hophni and Phinehas, who treated offerings with contempt and used priestly privilege for exploitation. They corrupted the holy office, and God judged their house.

Move into the New Testament, and the theme continues. In 1 Corinthians 11, the Lord’s Supper was abused. The wealthy shamed the poor, and the church fractured along lines of status. The ordinance meant to proclaim Christ and our unity in Him was turned into a display of self, and God did not take it lightly. Or consider Herod in Acts 12, receiving worship and accepting the people’s flattery that he was the voice of a god. He welcomed a lie about glory, and judgment fell.

Let me be careful. We live in an age of grace. I am not saying God will close your church or end your ministry if you cancel a Sunday morning worship service. I am not trying to create panic or pretend that every decision has immediate catastrophic consequences. But I am saying this: God takes holy symbols seriously, and the gathered church on the Lord’s Day is one of the primary symbols of this church age. Week after week, the church’s assembly preaches. It preaches that Jesus is Lord. It preaches that His people are not consumers but a body. It preaches that our lives are ordered around worship, not around convenience. It preaches that the Word of God and the praises of God matter more than our comfort. It preaches that Christ is building His church.

So if we normalize canceling worship because we are tired, or because the schedule is inconvenient, or because the holiday weekend is crowded, we may be preaching something we do not intend. We may be preaching that gathering is optional. We may be preaching that comfort outranks mission. We may be preaching that the church’s worship is negotiable in a way that everything else in the community is not.

There is a healthier path, and it is both pastoral and practical. Instead of canceling, simplify. Meet with less polish. Reduce the moving parts. Make it easier on volunteers. Shorten the service if needed. Choose songs that do not require extensive rehearsal. Adjust the children’s ministry to be responsible and safe, while being lighter on workers. Let the extras rest without letting the assembly rest. Provide a simple home worship guide for travelers that reinforces, rather than replaces, the priority of gathering. Lead your people to see that we gather not because it is convenient, but because Christ is worthy.

At the same time, address the deeper issue. If your church cannot gather without exhausting everyone, that is not a reason to cancel worship. It is a reason to reform the system. Protect days off. Build rotations. Train more leaders. Say no to unnecessary additions. Reduce complexity as a policy, not as a yearly emergency move. People will adjust, and many will be relieved. A simpler Sunday can be a stronger Sunday when it rests on the ordinary means of grace rather than constant production.

Finally, we should allow the global church to steady our perspective. Many believers around the world gather at significant cost. In some places, it takes courage to attend church. Their weekly gathering is not a convenient religious option. It is a costly act of allegiance to Jesus. We should not use their suffering to shame others, but let it humble us. Their faithfulness should make us slow to treat gathering as a luxury item.

The world does not need a church that gathers only when it is convenient. It needs a church that worships Jesus with steady joy, that rests wisely without neglecting the assembly, and that chooses mission over comfort, especially when it would be easier to stay home.

If we need to scale back, let us scale back. If we need to simplify, let us simplify. If we need to rest, let us rest. But let us not casually treat as optional what God has made central. The gathered worship of the church is not a disposable tradition. It is a living testimony that Christ is risen, Christ is reigning, and Christ is worth ordering our lives around.

“Rooted and Reaching: How Small Churches Can Faithfully Engage Young Families and Their Neighborhoods”

The local church is God’s chosen vehicle for hope, transformation, and community. In every generation, the call remains the same: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). However, the way we reach our neighbors and communicate the Gospel must adapt to shifting cultures and emerging needs, without compromising the message of the cross. For small churches, especially, the challenge is real. Yet so is the opportunity

Drawing from trusted voices like Small Church USA, The Malphurs Group, Thom Rainer, and research from Barna and books like Reaching the Nones, Gen Z, and Canoeing the Mountains, here are some biblically grounded and practically tested ways your church can do a better job of reaching its neighborhood and attracting younger families—while avoiding distractions from the Gospel

1. Start With the Gospel, Stay With the Gospel

Many churches fall into the trap of assuming that cultural adaptation requires diluting the message. It doesn’t. In fact, younger generations, particularly Gen Z, are looking for authenticity, not entertainment. As Barna reports, the emerging generation is not irreligious—they’re simply disillusioned with shallow expressions of faith.

Thom Rainer warns against “attractional models” that replace the Gospel with gimmicks. While clean buildings and children’s programs are essential, they can’t substitute for a vibrant faith community rooted in the Word. Paul told the Corinthians, “For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2). That’s still our starting point.

2. Know Your Neighborhood

The Malphurs Group emphasizes that strategic churches do demographic work. When was the last time your church walked its neighborhood, prayed over it, or looked up local census data? Barna’s studies suggest that many church leaders overestimate their understanding of their mission field.

Jesus didn’t minister generically—He healed blind Bartimaeus, called Zacchaeus by name, and spoke with the woman at the well about her story. Knowing your neighbors is a biblical strategy.

Action Step: Use free tools like BlessEveryHome.com or even Google Maps to identify homes near your church. Then prayerfully create small teams to visit, listen, and invite—not just to your church, but into your lives.

3. Remove Barriers That Feel “Weird” to Outsiders

Younger families often encounter churches with confusing, even off-putting traditions that insiders no longer see. Small Church USA notes that elements such as unclear signage, outdated nursery policies, and “stand and greet” moments can be off-putting to young parents. These are not sacred cows—they’re simply habits.

Jesus modeled accessibility. He spoke in stories. He met people at wells, on roadsides, and in homes. Paul adapted his tone and approach: “I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some” (1 Corinthians 9:22).

Practical ideas:

• Clearly mark where to enter and where to take the children.
• Train greeters to be warm but not overwhelming.
• Avoid insider language or unexplained rituals during services.

4. Engage the Community Before Expecting Them to Come to You

From Canoeing the Mountains, we learn that leadership in uncharted territory requires missional innovation. For many churches, this means recognizing that the community won’t automatically come to them.

Host a block party, sponsor a booth at a local festival, offer parenting classes, or serve your local school. And do it without always handing out a flyer—just be present and loving.

Jesus “became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). So must we.

5. Offer Real Discipleship, Not Just Religious Activity

Gen Z and Millennials crave purpose. Churches that offer authentic discipleship—where people are invited into transformation, not just attendance—will reach the hearts of those they serve.

In Reaching the Nones, James Emery White reminds us that this group isn’t just indifferent to church—they often think it’s irrelevant. To counter this, churches must embody the love of Christ, live lives of integrity, and offer something more profound than surface-level programs.

Discipleship Tip: Start a simple Bible study for young families using stories of Jesus. Keep it relational. Allow for questions. Make it a space where faith can grow slowly and safely.

6. Don’t Confuse Change with Compromise

Yes, we may need to adjust our approach to ministry. That’s not compromise—it’s wisdom. Jesus didn’t heal every blind person the same way. He contextualized. He listened. He adapted. But he never compromised the truth.

The Malphurs Group puts it plainly: “If your methods aren’t reaching people, it’s time to evaluate whether your traditions have become barriers.”

Change for the sake of the mission is a biblical principle. Paul changed cities, languages, and styles—but not the Gospel. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Our message is immovable. Our methods must be flexible.

7. Stay Small and Strategic

Small churches aren’t lesser churches. They’re nimble, relational, and often uniquely positioned to care deeply. Thom Rainer notes that most families today are looking for a church that feels like home, not a stadium.

You don’t need a fog machine. You need love, clarity, hospitality, and Scripture.

Remember Zechariah 4:10: “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.”

In Conclusion:

The neighborhood is not a mission field to be conquered—it’s a place to love. Young families aren’t a demographic; they’re people Jesus died for. And small churches aren’t outdated, they are God’s frontline.

So walk your neighborhood. Reassess your habits. Tell the old, old story in ways that new ears can hear. Above all, keep the Gospel at the forefront.

At Crossroads Fellowship, we are dedicated to supporting pastors in navigating these changes with faithfulness and effectiveness. Through one-on-one consultation, focused training sessions, and ongoing prayer support, we walk alongside church leaders who want to reach their neighborhoods without compromising the Gospel. You’re not alone. Let’s follow Jesus together—into our communities, into the unknown, and into the lives of the next generation.

The Lord Is My Banner: How to Build and Maintain Ministry Teams That Last

If you’ve been in ministry for more than about ten days, you already know: you can’t do this alone. The weight is too heavy. The needs are too many. The mission is too great.

But that’s not a flaw in the system — it’s actually part of God’s design.

In Exodus 17, God gives us a vivid picture of what leadership with a team looks like. Israel is attacked by the Amalekites, and Moses sends Joshua to lead the charge in battle. But victory doesn’t come by strategy alone — it comes through a team of leaders working together under the authority and direction of God.

While Joshua fights, Moses ascends the hill with the staff of God in his hand. As long as his hands are raised, Israel prevails. But when his arms grow tired, things go south. That’s when Aaron and Hur step in — each one taking a side to hold up Moses’ arms until sunset. And Israel wins.

But what happens next is just as important.

“And Moses built an altar and called the name of it, The Lord is my banner, saying, ‘A hand upon the throne of the Lord!’”

(Exodus 17:15–16)

“The Lord is my banner.” In other words, this victory wasn’t about our strength. It wasn’t about great planning or strong leadership. This was God’s work, and we were simply faithful in our roles.

That’s what we want for our churches and ministry teams: not self-made wins, but Spirit-led victories that point clearly to Jesus. That means we need teams that are built with the proper foundation and sustained with healthy rhythms.

Here are five essential principles for building and maintaining ministry teams — drawn from this powerful moment in Israel’s story. These don’t have to be followed in a particular order, but pay attention to the fifth one: communication is the glue that holds everything else together.

1. Shared Vision: Knowing Why We’re on the Hill

In Exodus 17, everyone had a role, but they also shared a common vision. Moses, Aaron, Hur, and Joshua weren’t doing the same things, but they were working toward the same outcome: God’s people rescued, and God’s name lifted high.

That kind of alignment doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of clarity, prayer, and regular reminders. Without it, ministry teams drift into silos. People often focus on their own corner of the work without considering how it fits into the larger picture.

Shared vision isn’t just about having a mission statement. It’s about ensuring the team understands what we’re building, why it matters, and how each person contributes.

2. Vested Interests: Everybody Has Skin in the Game

The battle couldn’t be won without Moses. But Moses couldn’t do it without Aaron and Hur. And the fight in the valley would’ve been a disaster without Joshua and his chosen men.

In a healthy ministry team, everyone is all in. They’re not just watching. They’re engaged. They know the mission matters, and they bring their whole selves to it.

That’s what it means to have a vested interest — not just a title or a role, but a deep sense of ownership. The ministry is ours, not just the pastor’s. When that happens, burnout decreases and momentum increases.

3. Trusted Leadership: Following Without Fear

Aaron and Hur didn’t argue with Moses on the hill. Joshua didn’t second-guess Moses’ instructions. Why? Because they knew and trusted his leadership. Moses had proven faithful. His walk with God gave others confidence to follow.

Trusted leadership isn’t about charisma or command. It’s about consistency, humility, and character. When people believe their leaders are truly seeking God, genuinely loving others, and staying accountable, they’ll follow with trust instead of suspicion.

In today’s world, where trust in leaders is often fragile, this kind of leadership is more essential than ever.

4. Common Goals: Knowing What Winning Looks Like

It wasn’t complicated that day in the wilderness. If Moses’ hands are up, we win. If they drop, we lose.

We may not have such a simple indicator in church life, but the principle still holds: teams work best when they know what they’re aiming for. Too often, ministry gets busy without getting clear. We preach, plan, organize, and respond — but we’re not always sure what the actual goals are.

Common goals help teams focus. They keep us from drifting. And they give us something to celebrate when we see God at work.

5. Communication: The Glue That Holds Everything Together

Now imagine if Aaron and Hur were distracted that day — if they didn’t notice Moses’ fatigue, or weren’t sure what to do when he faltered. The whole battle could’ve turned.

Instead, they were present, responsive, and clear. They communicated, and that made all the difference.

You can have a powerful vision, strong investment, good leadership, and great goals — but if your team isn’t communicating, it will all unravel.

Communication is the glue that holds a team together. It builds trust, creates alignment, and provides space to adjust and grow. Don’t treat it as optional. Make it a core value of your team.

So What Do We Do With This?

The story of Exodus 17 isn’t just about teamwork. It’s about who gets the glory. When the dust settles, Moses doesn’t pat himself on the back. He builds an altar and declares: “The Lord is my banner.”

That’s our goal too. We want our churches and ministries to be the kind of places where God’s presence is unmistakable and God’s people are mobilized — not for our name, but for His.

If that’s your heart, here are some practical action steps to take this week:

Action Steps for Building and Maintaining Ministry Teams

1. Clarify your shared vision.

Write it down. Say it often. Ask your team, “What are we really trying to accomplish this year?” See if the answers align.

2. Check for buy-in.

Ask team members individually: “Where do you feel most invested right now?” and “What would help you feel more ownership?”

3. Build trust in your leadership.

Invite honest feedback. Ask a few trusted voices: “What’s it like to be led by me? What could I do differently?”

 4. Set short-term, common goals.

Pick one or two things your team can rally around over the next 90 days. Make sure they’re clear and achievable.

5. Evaluate your communication rhythm.

How often do you meet? Do those meetings feel purposeful? Could a new rhythm (weekly huddles, monthly syncs) help your team stay aligned?

 6. Name your support system.

Who’s holding up your arms right now? Who is praying for you, encouraging you, and supporting your leadership? If no one comes to mind, it’s time to build that support. (The Crossroads Fellowship can be a great source of 

6. Pray for your team by name.

There’s no substitute for this. Bring them before the Lord. Ask Him to unify, strengthen, and use them for His glory.

As you lead your church or ministry forward, may your team be grounded in these biblical principles and guided by one rallying cry:

“The Lord is my banner.”

Not our brilliance. Not our effort. Not our plans.

His presence. His power. His glory.

Let’s build teams that last — and point to the One who never fails.

Faithful. Joyful. Fruitful. Why All Three Matter in Ministry

Faithful. Joyful. Fruitful.
Three Marks of a God-Honoring Pastorate

By Jon Beight | Shepherd’s Spark Blog

Our chairman, Steve Whicker, often says that when it comes to pastoral ministry, “I want to be faithful, joyful, and fruitful.” And if you know Steve, that’s not just a nice phrase—it’s a heartfelt conviction forged through years of ministry, trials, and gospel work.

He’s right. The mark of an effective, God-honoring pastorate is not just one of these qualities, but all three—faithfulness, joyfulness, and fruitfulness. They’re not competing goals; they’re complementary graces that describe what it means to be a healthy shepherd in a local church.

So let’s dive into each of these. What does Scripture say about being faithful, joyful, and fruitful? And why might faithfulness—by itself—be insufficient for long-term effectiveness in pastoral ministry?

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Faithful: The Foundation of Shepherding

Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 4:2:

“It is required of stewards that they be found faithful.”

This is where we must start. Faithfulness is foundational. It’s showing up, sticking to the Word, standing firm in doctrine, loving the sheep, and persevering through the storms and the sunshine of ministry. It’s the kind of shepherd who stays in and out of season (2 Timothy 4:2), even when recognition is low and return is slow.

But faithfulness is not the finish line—it’s the starting line. A pastor who is faithful but lacks joy may become mechanical. A faithful pastor with no visible fruit may begin to settle for survival instead of mission.

The danger is that we define “faithful” too narrowly—as simply not quitting. But faithfulness is about how we stay, why we serve, and who we’re ultimately serving.

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Joyful: The Overflow of Gospel Ministry

Joy is not a luxury in pastoral ministry—it’s a necessity. Paul describes the Christian life in Galatians 5:22 with this familiar list:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…”

Joy is evidence that the Spirit is alive in you—and a ministry lacking joy is a ministry gasping for breath. Even in suffering, Paul could say he was “sorrowful, yet always rejoicing” (2 Corinthians 6:10). His joy wasn’t based on success, but on Jesus.

David Mathis, in Workers for Your Joy, reminds us:

“The pastor’s own joy in Jesus is not only essential to his endurance—it’s essential to his people’s flourishing.”

If our joy is gone, ministry becomes burdensome. Cynicism creeps in. We begin to pastor out of obligation, not affection. But when our joy in Jesus is alive, we’re refreshed and refresh others.

A joyful pastor gives permission for joy in the body. He leads not just with his voice but also with his countenance. He lifts up not just the name of Jesus but also the eyes of the discouraged.

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Fruitful: The Evidence of Spirit-Empowered Labor

In John 15:8, Jesus said:

“By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.”

Fruitfulness is not a megachurch metric or social media reach. It’s changed lives. It’s disciples made. It’s people becoming more like Jesus because of the Spirit working through your ministry.

Fruit may look like:

• A marriage restored
• A wayward teen returning
• A new believer taking their first steps
• A culture of generosity and outreach is forming in the church
• Leaders developed and sent out

Jesus tells a parable about a fig tree with leaves but no fruit (Mark 11:13–14). It looked healthy from a distance—but up close, it was barren. Activity is not the same as vitality.

Pastors, if our ministries look alive but aren’t producing spiritual fruit, it’s time to prayerfully ask why. Are we depending on the Spirit? Are we proclaiming the Gospel clearly? Are we equipping the saints for the ministry's work?

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Why All Three Matter—And Why Faithfulness Alone Is Not Enough

Let me be clear: faithfulness is non-negotiable. But faithfulness without joy can become cold. And faithfulness without fruit can become complacent.

We’re not just called to “stay in ministry” but to thrive in ministry, by the power of the Holy Spirit. Joy and fruit are not accessories to faithfulness—they are often its proof.

Paul didn’t just say, “I stuck around.” He said:

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)

His faithfulness led to something. It accomplished something. And it was done with joy, even in chains.

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What Faithfulness Really Is

Faithfulness is not just sticking it out in one ministry location for as long as you can endure. True faithfulness includes two key things:

1. Not failing in ministry means walking in integrity and finishing well.
2. Not acting like a hireling, the kind of shepherd Jesus warned us about in John 10.

John 10:12–13 says:

“He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd… sees the wolf coming, leaves the sheep, and flees… He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.”

A hireling isn’t just someone who leaves; he doesn’t care. He stays or goes based on comfort, not calling. A faithful shepherd can transition ministries—but not because it’s hard. He moves only when God leads and does it with concern for the sheep, not self-preservation.

It’s okay to leave a ministry. Seasons change, and callings can shift. But we should always leave in a God-honoring way, with love, clarity, and humility.

When fruitfulness and/or joy begin to fade, that may be a sign it’s time to discern a new assignment. But that doesn’t mean it’s time to quit ministry.

I’ll never forget the shock when Peyton Manning was released by the Indianapolis Colts. Everyone thought he was done—until he showed up in Denver, where he would eventually win another Super Bowl. The move gave him renewed drive and purpose. He wasn’t finished—just finished in Indy.

Brothers, the same may be true of us.

If your current assignment is losing clarity, but your calling is still strong, maybe God has new work ahead. Be faithful—but also be open. Because sometimes, the most faithful thing you can do is move—not out of frustration, but out of obedience.

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So What Kind of Shepherd Will You Be?

Let’s strive to be:

• Faithful in doctrine and character
• Joyful in Christ and in our people
• Fruitful in Gospel ministry and kingdom advance

The church doesn’t just need shepherds who stick around. It needs shepherds who love Jesus, love their flock, and walk in the Spirit.

Let’s be all three—for God’s glory, our good, and the health of the churches we serve.

Preaching to Younger Generations Without Losing the Gospel Thread

I recently preached on Psalm 34, and something exciting happened.

As I opened the passage—“I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth”—I saw something shift in the room. The 20-somethings in the congregation, who at first sat with a posture that said “another talking head,” began to lean in.

They weren’t just nodding politely. They were dialed in.

One young man to my right looked like he was about to fall out of his chair—not from boredom, but because something in the Word had gripped him. His eyes locked in. His body tilted forward. His entire posture said: “This matters.”

It wasn’t because the sermon was flashy. It was because Psalm 34 is full of raw emotion, real hope, and the kind of gritty praise that’s born out of suffering, and the Spirit was working through the text.

That moment reminded me: this generation is hungry for truth, but it must be delivered with clarity, conviction, and compassion.

So, how do we preach to a generation that’s grown up in a digital, skeptical, and deeply searching world? How do we avoid gimmicks, stay rooted in Scripture, and still speak in a way that engages hearts?

Let’s explore seven ways faithful preaching can speak powerfully to younger generations, without losing the Gospel thread.

1. Let Your Tone Be Bold and Kind

Preaching to younger generations doesn’t require being edgy—it requires being real. They don’t want to be talked down to. They want the truth shared with humility.

Matt Chandler once said, “We’re not trying to be offensive. We’re trying to be faithful. The cross is offensive enough.” Be clear, but also be pastoral. Grace and truth walk hand in hand.

2. Preach Clear, Focused Sermons

They’re listening—but only if you give them something worth listening to. Keep your sermons purposeful, well-structured, and grounded in one main idea from the text.

As H.B. Charles Jr. reminds us in On Preaching:

“Don’t waste people’s time. Every moment you spend in the pulpit should be worth their attention.”

Preaching isn’t a performance, but it must respect people’s focus and steward their hearts.

3. Show Them Why It Matters

Today’s hearers don’t just ask, “Is it true?” They ask, “Does it matter?”

Warren Wiersbe wisely said, “Truth without application is like a medicine that stays on the shelf.” When you preach, connect doctrine to life. Show how the ancient words of Scripture speak to breakups, burnout, fear, ambition, and real questions people are carrying. This should evoke a certain level of passion in the sermon; this passage matters to you, the listener, right now. 

4. Tell Stories That Serve the Text

Stories can open hearts, but they shouldn’t overshadow the message. Think of Jesus—His parables weren’t illustrations, they were the message. Every story must serve the truth you’re preaching.

Alistair Begg put it well: “We are not storytellers—we are truth-tellers who use stories wisely.” And when your story leads people to the Gospel, it’s time well spent.

5. Use Culture Carefully

You don’t have to quote Taylor Swift or mention TikTok trends to make a connection. When you do reference culture, let it illuminate the text, not replace it.

Tim Keller wrote in Preaching: “You must exegete your culture as carefully as you exegete the text.” Know your people. Speak to their world. But keep Scripture as the spotlight.

6. Preach the Bible as the Bible Deserves

Expository preaching still works. In fact, it might be more important now than ever. It teaches people to view Scripture as reliable, powerful, and worthy of their trust.

Steve DeWitt recently reminded his church, “God’s Word is the most relevant thing we can preach because it’s the only thing that doesn’t change.”

Preach it faithfully—and let God’s voice be louder than your own.

7. Bring Jesus Into Every Message

Whether you’re preaching from Judges, Jonah, or James, quote Jesus. That’s not a gimmick; it’s the Great Commission. Jesus said to teach “everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:20).

Charles Spurgeon’s challenge still echoes: “No Christ in your sermon, sir? Then go home, and never preach again until you have something worth preaching.”

There is nothing more relevant, nothing more beautiful, and nothing more necessary than Christ crucified and risen, for every generation.

A Word of Grace

Pastor, preaching today is not easy. You may feel pressure to be more polished, more trendy, or more impressive. But your calling isn’t to impress—it’s to be faithful.

You’re not alone. The Spirit is your helper. The Word is your anchor. And you have fellow laborers who are walking the same road.

Join a Crossroads Preaching Cohort

This fall, Crossroads Fellowship is launching Preaching Cohorts for pastors who want to grow together in Christ-centered, Scripture-anchored, Spirit-led preaching.

In these groups, we’ll:

• Encourage one another in our calling
• Give and receive honest, grace-filled feedback
• Learn how to connect with today’s listeners without compromising the Gospel
• Pray together for revival in our pulpits and our churches

If you’re interested in joining a preaching cohort, email [your email] or visit [your website] to learn more. Let’s strengthen one another as we proclaim the unchanging Word to a changing world.

Recommended Reading

If you’re looking to grow in preaching, here are some recent resources from trusted evangelical voices:

1. Gospel-Driven Ministry – Jared C. Wilson (2024)
2. Preaching for a Verdict – J.D. Greear (2023)
3. The Word Became Fresh: How to Preach from Old Testament Narrative Texts – Dale Ralph Davis (2020)
4. Faithful Preaching – Tony Merida (Updated ed. 2022)
5. Preaching to a Post-Everything World – Zack Eswine (Updated ed. 2021)
6. Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary Series (General Editors: David Platt, Tony Merida, Danny Akin) – Ongoing volumes
7. The Christ-Centered Expositor – Tony Merida (Revised 2022)

Bonus: Take a Simeon Trust Workshop

One of the best investments you can make in your preaching is attending a Simeon Trust preaching workshop. These intensive, hands-on events help pastors sharpen their ability to rightly handle the Word of God, especially in expository preaching.

Learn more at: www.simeontrust.org

Let’s preach Jesus. Let’s preach the Word. Let’s grow together.

Sharpen the Saw: Why Leadership Development Should Be Ongoing for Every Pastor

In Ecclesiastes 10:10, Solomon wisely observes, “If the iron is blunt, and one does not sharpen the edge, he must use more strength, but wisdom helps one to succeed.” It paints a vivid picture of a dull axe—one that makes your work harder, slower, and less effective than it should be. As pastors and leaders in Christ’s church, we must regularly pause to sharpen our tools—our hearts, minds, and skills—so that we can lead with wisdom and strength, not just effort.

Leadership Development Isn’t a Luxury—It’s a Biblical Mandate

The Apostle Paul urged Timothy not only to “preach the word” but also to “fan into flame the gift of God” that was in him (2 Timothy 1:6). This signifies intentionality—ongoing development and stewardship of the calling we’ve received. In our context, it means growing in leadership capacity as shepherds, disciplers, communicators, and vision-carriers.

But in the demands of ministry, it’s easy to let leadership development slip. Sermon preparation, hospital visits, counseling sessions, staff meetings, and facility issues consume our week. Before long, we find ourselves running on yesterday’s fuel, relying on the instincts and methods that brought us this far, which may not take us any further.

Leadership growth doesn’t happen by accident. It takes commitment. And thankfully, it doesn’t have to happen alone.

Four Practices for Pastoral Leadership Growth

Here are four essential ways to keep growing as a pastor and leader in your context:

1. Read Thoughtfully and Regularly

Books give us access to mentors we may never meet in person. They sharpen our thinking, stir our imagination, and offer proven wisdom from the trenches of leadership and ministry.

Here are a few recommended reads for 2025, each chosen for a specific reason:

• Lead by Paul David Tripp

Why: A heart-level look at leadership, reminding pastors that character matters more than charisma. Tripp focuses on gospel humility, healthy team dynamics, and the internal battles of ministry.

• Canoeing the Mountains by Tod Bolsinger

Why: Leadership in a post-Christendom culture requires adaptive thinking. Bolsinger uses the journey of Lewis and Clark to explore how to lead faithfully when the terrain changes dramatically.

• The Conviction to Lead by Albert Mohler

Why: Mohler challenges leaders not just to manage but to lead with deep theological conviction. A call to lead from a biblical worldview, not pragmatism—ideal for pastors feeling pulled in cultural crosswinds.

• QBQ! The Question Behind the Question by John G. Miller

Why: A simple but powerful book on personal responsibility and leadership initiative. It’s about asking better questions—ones that lead to action instead of blame-shifting. Great for staff and elder teams as well.

Set a goal to read one book per quarter. Better yet, pick one and read it with another pastor or in a small group to discuss and apply it together.

2. Attend Conferences and Workshops

There’s something powerful about stepping away from the week-to-week to hear fresh voices, worship with others in ministry, and receive insight you didn’t even know you needed.

Conferences to Consider:

• The Crossroads Fellowship Pastors’ Conference (Oct 27–29, 2025)
• Theme: Disciples Make Disciples
• Why: This is your tribe—pastors who understand your context and share your mission. The keynote messages, cohort discussions, and shared meals will refocus and refresh your leadership.
• The GARBC National Conference or The Gospel Coalition (TGC) Events
• Why: These national gatherings feature strong biblical teaching, cultural engagement, and excellent resources for preaching, theology, and ministry.
• Small Church USA or The Malphurs Group Regional Events
• Why: Especially valuable for churches under 150 in attendance.  These meetings offer practical, size-appropriate solutions and encouragement for small-church leaders.

Budget for one or more events per year. It’s not an expense—it’s an investment in your health, your calling, and your church’s future.

3. Engage in Leadership Peer Groups

No leader thrives alone. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Peer groups give pastors a space for honest conversation, mutual support, and shared wisdom.

Crossroads Fellowship is developing regional and ministry-aligned cohorts. These small groups (typically 4–6 pastors) meet quarterly and include:

• Ministry and personal updates
• Shared discussion around a book or topic
• Leadership challenges and best practices
• Time for encouragement and prayer

If you’re not yet part of one, consider starting a group. Let us know—we’re ready to help connect you with others in your area or ministry setting.

Leadership doesn’t have to be lonely.

4. Seek Mentors and Coaches

Who’s helping you grow right now? Who’s asking you the hard questions or encouraging you when you feel worn out?

We need mentors—seasoned pastors who have walked the road before us—and coaches who can ask the right questions and offer clarity during challenging seasons.

Here are some ways to take a step:

• Ask a retired pastor or wise elder in Crossroads to meet with you monthly—for perspective, prayer, and practical insight.
• Look for informal coaching relationships with a peer, a regional leader, or someone you respect.
• Build coaching into your budget or schedule—not as a fix-it tool, but as part of a healthy, ongoing development process. To seek guidance—it’s wisdom.

What Happens If We Don’t?

Neglecting leadership development has consequences. Ministry becomes reactive, not proactive. Our churches plateau. Our preaching flattens. Our staff wander. And eventually, we grow tired—not from the work itself, but from carrying it alone and unrefreshed.

But when we keep growing:

• We think more clearly.
• We communicate more effectively.
• We inspire others to lead.
• We model growth for our churches.

We stay sharp. And sharp tools, Solomon says, make the work easier and more fruitful.

Let’s Grow Together

Crossroads Fellowship exists to help pastors flourish. We believe healthy churches are led by growing leaders—men of prayer, grit, humility, and vision who refuse to settle for cruise control.

• So what’s your next step?
• Pick up a book that stretches your leadership.
• Register for the October conference.
• Join or start a leadership peer group.
• Reach out to someone who can walk with you, or someone you can invest in.

Your church needs your leadership. Your family needs your health. And your calling deserves your best.

“Shepherd the flock of God that is among you… being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:2–3). May part of your example be a passion to grow, so your church can, too.

If you’d like help choosing a book, forming a group, or attending a conference, reach out to us. We’re here to support your journey because disciples make disciples, and leaders raise up leaders.

Let’s sharpen the saw—together.